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Maximum size : 7.5 cm
Peacock Gudgeon - Tateurndina Ocellicauda : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Peacock Gudgeon (Tateurndina Ocellicauda) is a captivating and serene freshwater fish, renowned for its unique appearance, simplicity to care for, and robust nature. This fish's elegance and tranquility make it an exceptional addition to a community aquarium, where it gets along well with many other species. To fully appreciate the Peacock Gudgeon's beauty, they should be kept in small groups. Despite being territorial, their quarrels are limited to flaring and displaying, providing an enjoyable spectacle for the aquarist. Peacock Gudgeons are compatible with Rainbowfish, Rasboras, Tetras, Corydoras Catfish, and other small, peaceful species, but a large aquarium is necessary if they are to share space with slightly more territorial fish, such as Dwarf Cichlids. Soft and slightly acidic water, coupled with ample hiding places, is preferred by the Peacock Gudgeon. A dark substrate and floating vegetation provide a sense of security, while driftwood or bogwood provides hiding spaces and improves color display. A gentle filtration system is recommended, as these fish do not do well with a fast water flow. They are also exceptional jumpers, necessitating the use of a secure lid. Peacock Gudgeons are elongated with rounded heads, and adult males may develop a nuchal hump, making their round shape more pronounced. The body's blueish-silvery hue is complemented by pink, black, and yellow marks along the body, and the fins' thick, bright yellow edges. Females have a thinner strip of black on top of the yellow portions of their fins. The sides of their body display red dotted stripes that run vertically down the fish's entire length, and they have a yellow abdomen. Finally, there is a single, large black spot at the base of the caudal fin on either side of the body, which gives them their name.Peacock Gudgeon Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Sexual dimorphism in Peacock Gobies is quite evident, with males displaying more vibrant coloration and a larger nuchal hump on their forehead compared to females. In addition, males tend to be slightly larger than females. On the other hand, females exhibit a more vividly colored yellow belly, with a black bar running along the edges of their anal fins. Furthermore, females possess a more contoured body shape, distinct from the round body shape observed in males. These distinguishing features make it relatively simple to differentiate between male and female Peacock Gobies. Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Tateurndina Ocellicauda |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1955 |
| Other Names | Peacock Goby |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Gobiiformes |
| Family | Eleotridae |
| Genus | Tateurndina |
| Origins | Papua New Guinea Australia New Zealand |
| Max Size | 7.5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Cave spawning |
| Lifespan | 4 - 5 years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| PH | 6.0 - 7.8 |
| GH | 5 - 12 |
| KH | |
| TDS |
| ℉ | 72 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22.2 - 26.1 |
Natural habitat
The Peacock Gudgeon is endemic to the eastern part of Papua New Guinea in Oceania. Although they originate in this region, you'll also find them throughout Australia and New Zealand, adding to their global appeal. In their natural habitat, the Peacock Gudgeon inhabits soft and acidic waters in slow-moving lowland streams and rivers, as well as shallow still ponds. These serene waters are warm and loaded with dense vegetation, providing ample opportunities for these colourful fish to forage for food and explore their surroundings. The Peacock Gudgeon serves as a testament to the incredible biodiversity of Oceania and the importance of preserving and protecting our planet's natural resources. Their natural habitat requirements and fascinating behaviour make them a unique and captivating addition to any aquarist's collection. Prepare to be entranced by the stunning beauty of the Peacock Gudgeon and the wonders of the natural world. With their vibrant colours and distinctive markings, these fish are sure to impress even the most discerning aquarists.
Sivoli River - Papua New Guinea
How to breed the Peacock Gudgeon
Breeding Peacock Gudgeons is a relatively straightforward process. These fish typically form connections and establish partnerships quickly. Once you have identified a breeding pair from a group of fish, move them to a separate breeding tank containing caves or other suitable structures, such as a PVC pipe or a terracotta pot. To induce the breeding process, perform a profound water change and provide your couple with a sufficient amount of protein-rich live and frozen food. When the male is ready to breed, he will display a dancing ritual for the female by swimming around the cave entrance and flashing his pectoral fins. If the female accepts him, she will swim into the cave and lay around 50 to 100 adhesive eggs on the sides of the cave or the ceiling, after which she will leave. The male will take over and fertilize the eggs, diligently fanning and defending them. After 8 to 10 days, the eggs will hatch, and the male will continue to care for the fry until they consume their yolk sac. At this point, you can remove the adult fish from the breeding tank, leaving the fry to fend for themselves. Peacock Gudgeon fry grow relatively slowly, and they should be fed with infusoria or powdered food until they are large enough to eat baby brine shrimp or microworms. A constant food supply will help them grow, and it will take several weeks before they are able to swim freely. Overall, breeding Peacock Gudgeons requires careful attention to water quality, adequate nutrition, and providing suitable breeding conditions. However, with the right preparation, this can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for any aquarist.Diet & feeding
Feeding Peacock Gudgeons can be a demanding task as they are notoriously selective eaters. While they may occasionally accept high-quality dried food, they generally show a preference for decapsulated brine shrimp and a diet of live or frozen foods. To ensure the optimal health, colour, and well-being of your fish, it is recommended to provide them with a variety of live foods, such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp. These nutrient-rich options will help satisfy their dietary preferences and maintain their overall vitality. By selecting high-quality food options, you can provide your Peacock Gudgeons with the best possible care and nourishment.Videos
9 tank mate ideas for the Peacock Gudgeon
Looking for some awesome tank mate ideas for your Peacock Gudgeon? Look no further! Here are 9 of the most captivating and fascinating options that will liven up your aquarium!
Freshwater
Freshwater
Freshwater
Freshwater
Freshwater
Freshwater
Freshwater
Freshwater
Freshwater
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